I upgraded to the turbo fins over a year ago. They are the best as far as I'm concerned. Very easy, relaxed leg motion translates into amazing forward speed. And I'm a 60-year-old diabetic with bad knees!

I bought my AI (2007 version) with Turbo fins, but after 8 weeks of usage the metal pin in the fin (mast) came through the bottom of the fin (on both fins!) so I decided to change them and use now the standard fins (the black ones).
Of cause the Tubos were more efficient, but I think there are some constructional problems. Also I think that the higher forces on the mirage drive caused some damage there (broken sprocket and damaged hole in the drum, instablility).

So, as far as the constructional problems aren't solved, I would suggest to use the standard fins to avoid the problems mentioned above (this year used for 6 weeks and up till now no problems, but, of cause, a little bit slower when pedaling).

I was thinking of upgrading to the turbo fins on my 2007 AI, but I got to talking to my dealer about how I use the boat. I do like to go out and do some Chesapeake Bay "gunkholing". Sometimes that gets me into some shallow little inlets & streams. For that reason I decided to go with the ST fins instead. The ST fins are similar in shape and stiffness to the turbo fins, but are the same length as the stock fins. I've tried both the full size turbos, the STs, and the stock fins, in a single outing (nice dealer who had some loaner drives available). The ST fins were a nice compromise. Stiffer pedal feel, similar to the turbos, but no additional depth penalty. They're about half the price, as well. If depth isn't a concern, then maybe the turbos are more appropriate for you, but I think the ST fins give the best of both.

My dealer said he thinks that the 09 AI will come with the Turbo fins standard. Any validity on that rumor?? He also mentioned a new super wide and stable fishing Hobie Kayak w/ mirage drive. Brand new model for 09.

I've been in quite a bit of shallow water already, and found that you can just leave one leg mostly forward and one mostly back and wiggle the drive blades up near the hull. The deeper it is, the more of a stroke you can take. It's not great, but then, paddling in shallow water was never great either.

We got to try out our Turbo Fins for the first time yesterday afternoon. I like high gear!

What have you all found as far as adjusting the clew tension on T Fins? The tuning guide says tighter is faster, looser has more torque and is easier to pedal. I set ours on "fast"! I like how they feel, very powerful. Should I bother experimenting with a looser setting?